​Perhaps you’re wondering about the title of this blog, after all what is so unsafe about composting you might ask? Well, if we are not careful when handling compost, there are many unpleasant health problems that can arise. To avoid these problems, lets look at a few ways we can protect ourselves.

This is a very obvious one but washing hands after working with compost is an essential way of preventing potential hazards. It can easily be overlooked though, especially if you are continuing with yard work.

Make sure you protect yourself from coming into contact with the compost. Protective clothing is the key here. Always make sure you have good gloves and appropriate footwear and avoid wearing the same shoes in the house, in this way you will avoid bringing these pathogens into the home.

Someone who is used to composting will know that tilling is an important thing to do in order for the compost to break down. It is unsafe to do this without a breathing mask. Unhealthy spores resulting from rotting matter become airborne which, if inhaled can become dangerous. Its good to keep this in mind if it is windy out, it is best to avoid tilling altogether in this case.

If stored wrongly, compost can be combustible. Store your compost in a container that will allow for good air flow.

While we know there are many advantages to composting, its good to keep in mind proper safety habits so as to avoid any unpleasant health issues.